Highlights of Gosaikunda Lake Trek

Pay attention to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m), which is a sacred place of Hindus and Buddhists.
Pass breath-taking Lauribina La Pass (4,610m) with the Himalayas views.
Explore the scenic Langtang National Park.
Enjoy the local Tamang culture and hospitality.
View panoramas of Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal.
Explore the colorful rhododendron forests and alpine landscapes.
Opportunity to observe rare animals like the red panda and Himalayan tahr.
An exciting and scenic walk by Hill Sherpa Trekking and Expedition.

Trip Overview

Gosaikunda Lake Trek – Holy Himalayan Adventure Trekking in Nepal

Have a spiritual and breathtaking experience as you take a spiritual pilgrimage to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m) which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places in Nepal. This sacred lake is surrounded by snow-white mountains and pure alpine scenery, which is assumed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri. The crystal clear waters of turquoise colour are another attraction for pilgrims and trekkers and are unfrozen only six months annually or between the months of October and March. During spring and summer when the ice melts, the sacred waters are carried over by the Trishuli River, which is a powerful river.

At the Gosaikunda area, there are 108 sacred lakes, therefore, it is a very mystic and spiritually important place. Thousands of Hindu and Buddhist followers of Nepal and India come here every year during the holy festivals of Janai Purnima and Gangadashahara to take a bath in the holy waters and they believe that this purges their sins and it gives them spiritual blessings.

Hindu mythology holds that it was Lord Shiva who created the lake. His throat burned fiercely after he had swallowed the poison to save the universe. He hit the mountain with his Trishul (holy trident) to cool the poison and this formed the sacred waters of Gosaikunda.

Located in the Langtang Region near the Tibetan border, the trek offers a perfect combination of spiritual experience, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. Hill Sherpa Trekking & Expedition begins this remarkable journey from Dhunche, the gateway to Langtang. The trail gradually ascends through charming villages and lush forests, passing Chandanbari (3,200m), Sing Gompa, and Laurebinayak (3,700m) before reaching the sacred lake and crossing the high Lauribina La Pass (4,610m).

The trail used by the trekkers keeps on changing and the views have different landscapes as they proceed through the scenic trail in Phedi, Ghopte, Tharepati, Mangengoth, Kutumsang, Thodung and finally arriving at Chisapani, with changing landscapes and a memorable panorama of the mountains.

This is the journey into the stunning area between the Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal, and the tourists can experience the rich culture and tradition of the Tamang people, whose warm hospitality, unique Buddhist culture, and traditional mountain lifestyle are very rich.

The amazing diversity of nature will impress nature enthusiasts. The path goes over a rhododendron thicket, which, in spring, flings its pink and red flowers into the air. The existence of bamboo groves, alpine meadows, and untouched forests provides a home to some endangered species including red panda, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan tahr, and playful rhesus monkeys. It is also a birdwatcher paradise and the area has numerous species of Himalayan birds that flourish within the area.

Gosaikunda Trek is regarded as a moderate adventure and it makes a reasonable fitness level as it has a higher altitude and continuous uphill climbs. Nevertheless, the payoff is the trip of a lifetime with holy lakes, scenic Himalayas and serene tracks that are not crowded by other mainstream trekking trails.

During the Gosaikunda lake trek, you will find a Himalayan gem that has a spiritual, cultural, and natural beauty, blended with our team. It is an adventure of silent roads, untouched scenery, and a band of mystical mountain lakes that make memories to be remembered forever.

The Gosaikunda Lake Trek will be a magical adventure in the midst of the Himalayas no matter when you visit in spring, autumn or even in winter.

Gosaikunda Lake Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Nepal

At Tribhuvan International Airport, one of the representatives of Hill Sherpa Trekking and Expedition will receive you warmly and take you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Once you have checked in, you can have a rest in the hotel or you can see what the city can offer to you in the bustling streets and its related attractions.

A briefing of the Gosaikunda Lake Trek will follow later in which you will meet your guide and have your trekking gear ready to go on the trip.

Max Altitude

1,300 M

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Tourist Standard Hotel

Day 02: Drive to Dunche from Kathmandu

Your first destination is the Gosaikunda region after breakfast. You will be visiting Kathmandu to Dhunche in a local bus with your guide. The scenic road journey requires approximately 5-6 hours and it goes through the twisting mountain routes with the beautiful river Trishuli.

In between, you will be delighted with sightseeing terraced farms, forests, rivers, and antique villages. When you arrive in the town of Dhunche, the capital of Rasuwa District, you can visit the small mountain town and meet nice people. You will spend the night in a comfortable teahouse in the evening and you will be ready to undertake the trekking adventure that awaits you.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

1,960 M

Activity

Drive

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Trek to Sing Gompa from Dhunche

The trek starts after breakfast at Dhunche, where it proceeds upwards gradually and passes through gorgeous forests within the Langtang National Park. The trail is in the midst of thick rhododendron, oak, and pine forest, which provides a serene environment and a few times a glimpse of the hills and mountains around.

The route passes through small villages and scenic gorges up to Sing Gompa which is at an elevation of 3,250 meters. Sing Gompa, or Chandanbari, is a lovely village that boasts of its early monastery and local factory of yak cheese. It is the starting point of trekkers who can have a beautiful view of the Langtang Himal. Single night in a teahouse, Sing Gompa.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3,250 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Trek from Sing Gompa to Lauribina

After breakfast, the walk proceeds out of Sing Gompa to Lauribina. The path passes gradually up through gorgeous rhododendron and pine forests within Langtang National Park. The trees gradually open up and the scenery of the mountains around you is more impressive as you walk up.

On the route, you get to experience quiet trails, little teahouses as well as breathtaking Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal views. Approximately 4-5 hours into the walk, you will reach the beautiful ridge of Lauribina (3,910m), where there are spectacular mountain views. Overnight stay at a teahouse.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

3,910 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Trek from Lauribina to Gosaikunda

After breakfast, the expedition proceeds out of Lauribina to the holy Gosaikunda Lake. The path slowly ascends with alpine meadows and rocky crusades, providing views of snow-capped mountains and the area of high altitude.

On the road, you can see grazing yaks and experience the calmness of the Himalayas. You will find Gosaikunda Lake, a sacred lake of dramatic mountains, after 3-4 hours trekking. This is a peaceful and inspirational site that is ideal for thinking, taking photos, and visiting the smaller lakes around it. Teahouse accommodation at the lake.

Duration

3-4 hours

Max Altitude

4,380 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Trek to Ghopte via Lauribina la pass 4,610 M

The modern day walk is probably one of the most thrilling stages of the journey as you go across the high Lauribina La Pass (4,610m). Leaving the holy Gosaikunda Lake, the path slowly rises up to the pass, providing unbelievable sights of the Himalayan mountains and the alpine surroundings.

On your way, you will visit some wonderful lakes at high altitude like Surya Kund, Ganesh Kund and Dudh Kund which contribute to the mysterious beauty of the region. Once one passes the pass, the trail moves down a steep mountain road towards the valley below.

After several more hours of trudging through the secluded alpine mountains and quiet forest paths, you will eventually arrive at the small village of Ghopte at 3,780 meters, and you will stay the night at a local tea house. It is a wonderful scenery day and a real high Himalayan trekking experience.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3,780 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Trek from Ghote to Therapati

The journey starts after breakfast at Ghopte along a picturesque path across steep cliffs, and through lovely juniper and rhododendron woods. Our peaceful road keeps along a little mountain stream, and on your way, you might notice some of the waterfalls dropping down off the high banks above. It slows down and heads to Mera Kharka and then to Tharepati.

Once at the ridge, past Tharepati, you will have beautiful places to see of the surrounding hills and of the gorgeous Helambu area. You shall make the journey of some 6-7 hrs. by foot, and reach Tharepati, and you will stay overnight in a teahouse.

Duration

6-7 hours

Max Altitude

3,600 M

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Trek from Tharepati to Mangengoth

The trek starts in the morning after breakfast, at Tharepati, and follows a good and fairly easy road through the picturesque mountain ridge. The road is broad and very quiet with gorgeous scenery on the east and west. Through clear days, the trekkers are able to have a distant look at the beautiful Himalayan peaks including Ganesh Himal and Gaurishankar.

The path cuts through thick rhododendron and pine wood, ensuring a cool and refreshing feel as you go further in the trek. An optional side trip on the short side also takes one to Kyuola Bhanjyang (3,480m), a silent forest where inquisitive explorers would be lucky to see some of the rare animals in the Himalaya like the Red Panda and others.

In 5-6 hours walking along such attractive forest and ridge paths, you will reach Mangengoth (3,420m) a quiet grazing ground consisting of alpine meadows and forests. Stay overnight in a local teahouse.

Duration

5-6 hours

Max Altitude

3,420 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Trek to Kutumsang

The walk starts after breakfast at Mangengoth, on the scenic trail of the Ridge towards Kutumsang. The route is made up of scenic forests and serene mountainous scenery, which provides nice visibility during a walk.

In between, you will pass through a small village called Sangugupte, where you can have a small rest and a cup of tea. Here, the road then slowly curves down through woodland tracks and by steep steps of stone. As you walk through the forest, you will see that monkeys play in the trees, creating life in the serene environment.

On your way to Kutumsang, you will see, just before entering the village a traditional white Buddhist stupa, which is the entrance to the village. Some 4-5 hours of walking will then see you arrive at the town of Kutumsang (2,470m) where you would spend the night at a local teahouse.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

2,470 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 10: Trek to Thodung village

The trek starts after breakfast at Kutumsang as the path is slowly descending amidst scenic hills and villages. The road cuts across woodlands and terraced agricultural lands, which give an insight into local life in the mountain villages.

Going on the path, you would arrive at Gul Bhanjyang (2,130m), a tiny village whose narrow streets and few lodges provide a chance to rest among the trekkers on numerous occasions. Here, the road goes on to Thodung (2,160m).

It will take approximately 5 6 hours of walking through the quiet countryside and villages, after which you will reach Thodung, where you will have a night’s stay in a nearby teahouse. The segment of this trek is a relaxing one and an opportunity to experience the exact culture of the Helambu region.

Duration

4-5 hours

Max Altitude

2,160 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 11: Trek to Chisapani

The trek starts after breakfast but this time, instead of continuing on the same trail, Thodung moves to greener and more humid hillsides to gradually lead toward the direction of Chisapani. The route traverses small villages like Chipling and Lapche and the route provides the best views of the hills around and the mountains ahead.

On bright days, the trekkers are able to see the panoramic views of the Annapurna Range on the west and Chobo Bamare on the east. The road then swerves down to Thankune Bhanjyang and then to Pati Bhanjyang, and then ascends to Chisapani gradually.

The trekking will take approximately 5-6 hours to Chisapani (2,165m). It is a beautiful village on a hilltop that is well renowned for its beautiful views of the Himalayas and in clear weather, you will get to see a wonderful sunset over the mountains. One night stay in Chisapani teahouse.

Duration

5-6 hokurs

Max Altitude

2,165 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 12: Trek from Chisapani to Sundarijal & Drive to Kathmandu 45 minutes by car

The last day of the trekking starts at Chisapani after breakfast. The trail goes through the serene subtropical forests of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which is an exhilarating walk through the natural scenery and birds.

The path goes through Borlang Bhanjyang and then down through forest trails and stone steps to Mulkharka a Tamang hamlet. Going further downwards, the next place of interest will be Sundarijal, which is located approximately 1,460 meters above the ground.

It will be a quick trip back to Kathmandu with Sundararijal, and this shall be the culmination of this grand trekking adventure in the Himalayas.

Duration

3-4 hours

Max Altitude

1,350 m

Activity

Trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation

Tourist Standard Hotel

Day 13: Departure from Nepal to yokur home

It is the last day of your stay in Nepal. You will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where you will depart the country after breakfast in your hotel.

You can either use your free time to relax or do some last minute shopping in Kathmandu depending on your flight schedule. Having beautiful memories of the Himalayas and the holy Gosaikunda Lake, you will take home lifetime memories from your trekking experience in Nepal. Have a safe travel and hopefully see you back in the future.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Excluded

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Gosaikunda Lake Trek

Best Season

The best time to embark on the Gosaikunda Lake Trek is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). The spring season is the best time to view the enchanting wilderness of the Gosaikunda Lake Trek and the entire Langtang National Park. The hillsides are covered in blooming rhododendrons.

The weather is optimal in the spring season and allows trekkers to view the surrounding mountains (Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal) in all their glory. Autumn also provides marvellous views of the mountains. The temperature is very permissible and the trekking conditions are dry, which provides for easy and comfortable trekking. Additionally, Janai Purnima is a great time for trekkers who desire a spiritual experience. Many pilgrims visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and bathe in the lake’s holy waters and the views are extraordinary.

Difficulty Level and Acclimatisation

The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is classified as moderate and is ideal for trekkers with average fitness levels. The trail takes trekkers over forests and ridges to the sacred lake at 4,380 m and the high pass Lauribina La Pass (4,610 m). Each day’s hiking distance is quite reasonable. However, the high altitudes pose as an obstacle, thus, trekkers should take time to adjust to the conditions and take frequent breaks while drinking plenty of water to make the trek as enjoyable as possible. The itinerary for this trek is designed so that trekkers can adjust to the altitude at their own pace while also taking in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Elevation and Distance

Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a short yet fulfilling Himalayan adventure that guides trekkers into mid-hilly regions to the high alpines. The hike normally starts with a picturesque journey between Kathmandu and Dhunche 1,960 meters high which is the starting point to the trekking trail within the Langtang national park.

The road that leads to Dhunche village then meanders slowly climbing through the thicker forests and traditional villages to Chandanbari (Sing Gompa) at about 3,200 meters, then on to Laurebinayak at about 3,700 meters. The climax of the walk is the arrival at the holy Gosaikunda Lake on the mountain of 4380 meters, encircled by the spectacular Himalayan landscapes and a set of sacred mountain lakes. Other itineraries even pass across the high Lauribina La Pass (4,610m) and then proceed down to the Helambu area.

Overall, the trekking route is usually around 65 to 75 kilometers based on the route and itinerary taken. The average trekker takes between 6 and 13 days covering an average distance of 5 to 7 hours. The trail provides a slow increase in altitude, and thus is easily reachable by trekkers of moderate fitness, and in addition has the excitement of climbing to very high altitudes in the Himalayas.

Maximum / Minimum Walk per Day

Adventure in the Gosaikunda Lake Trek, trekkers tend to cover between 4 to 7 hours each day, which depends on the program, the trail and the height gain. The walking time can be approximately 4 hours on shorter days and in those cases when the trail has a gradual uphill in the forest and villages in Langtang National Park.

When the trip involves very long trekking days, especially during the time of reaching the sacred Gosaikunda Lake or passing the higher Lauribina La Pass, the walking time might also be as long as 6-7 hours. These are the days when you will experience constant uphills and amazing mountainous landscapes which will make the trip both difficult and satisfying.

The hiking speed is usually slow and easy to enable one to be acclimatized and to enjoy the Himalayan environment. Most of the trail has frequent rest stops to enable the trekkers to view the landscapes around them, take photographs and remain vitalized throughout the days of the trek with our experienced sherpa guide.

Can a beginner join this trip?

Yes, with enough determination, the Gosaikunda Lake Trek is also open to beginners. Though trekking experience is an advantage, it is not a prerequisite. The trek is shorter in distance than most Himalayan trekking routes, so it is a good option for beginners who want to trek in high altitudes in Nepal. With advice from Hill Sherpa Trekking, beginners will be able to pace themselves and with enough support, all trekkers will be able to make it to the sacred lake. This will be an experience of a lifetime.

Preparation and Training

Your trekking experience will improve with the right preparation and training for the Gosaikunda Lake Trek. To help improve your trekking experience, light exercise training is suggested to start 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Hiking and jogging will help develop the stamina and leg strength needed for your trek. Peak your cardiovascular activity to help increase your breathing capacity, especially for the higher altitudes you’ll be trekking.

Trekking through the Himalayan mountains requires mental tenacity and preparation to improve your experience. Proper preparation, mental and physical, will improve your experience. Warm clothing and trekking boots are essential to a safe and comfortable trek and will improve your journey.

Altitude Sickness

Trekking at an altitude of +3,000 m is a valid concern and definite hindrance for the Gosaikunda trek. It is only in higher elevations where mild symptoms are common to trekkers, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches. Proper hydration, diet, and slow trekking, is a checklist of the common factors of altitude sickness. Our experience guides monitor trekkers and helps with altitude sickness. The itinerary will be modified for the safety and comfort of the trekkers.

Alternate Routes

Trekkers are able to modify the Gosaikunda Trek to suit their needs and can choose from various alternate routes. One common choice is to pair the trek with the beautiful Helambu region, where trekkers can cross the Lauribina La Pass, then descend to the area’s stunning villages and monasteries. Another alternative is to continue moving along the Langtang Valley, creating an even longer trek and combining two of the most stunning areas to trek in Nepal. Such options are available so trekkers can tailor their trek to their available time, fitness level, and the type of adventure they seek.

Accommodation, Transportation, Meals and Drinks

During the trek, trekkers will spend the night at local teahouses and mountain lodges along the trail. The lodges are family-owned and offer simple, yet comfortable rooms, along with warm hospitality.

The family meals are a mix of Nepali and international options, including dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, soup, potatoes, and pasta. Available beverages are also extensive, with ginger lemon honey, and trekkers can warm up and energise with tea or coffee. The start of the trek includes a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, the starting point of the trek. This drive offers scenic views of the rivers, the hills, and rural Nepal.

Communication, Charging, and Internet/Wi-Fi

Almost all sections of the trekking path have communication infrastructure, but as the altitude increases, it may be more difficult to contact. For a fee, you can use the Wi-Fi provided by many teahouses to contact your loved ones. In some villages, you can get phone reception as well. Lodges and guesthouses may charge you to use their device charging services, but they do offer them. In the more secluded areas of the mountains, electricity can be scarce, so it is advisable to bring a power bank or spare batteries.

Permits

Before trekking in the Gosaikunda area, you need the Langtang National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS Card. The Langtang National Park Entry Permit and TIMS Card are supportive of the conservation and safety of trekkers in the area. All our guests are provided with the services of ease and comfort of permit arrangements by Hill Sherpa Trekking & Expedition.

What to Expect During the Trek

With the Gosaikunda Lake Trek, trekkers are sure to have an incredible experience as they immerse themselves in breathtaking natural beauty and culture, while also experiencing spirituality. Trekkers will pass through extensive, dense pine and rhododendron forests, traverse beautiful landscapes where they will be able to see the Himalayas from above, and explore rich, cultured, historic, traditional Tamang villages.

The zenith of this experience is the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, where the terrain is filled with mystical alpine lakes surrounded by numerous towering mountains. The most exciting encounters on this trek will be the unique wildlife, such as the elusive Red Panda, and maybe some other wildlife in the Langtang National Park. The collapsible Gosaikunda Lake Trek offers a unique and inspiring path, and a rewarding spiritual experience in the Himalayas among the most beautiful landscapes in all of Nepal. Enjoy the peace.

Altitude Chart of Gosaikunda Lake Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

General

How difficult is the Gosaikunda Lake Trek?

This is regarded as a moderate trek. A moderate degree of fitness is required for the trekkers since the trail is high and has some steep ascends.

Where is the Gosaikunda Lake Trek located?

The trek is found in the Langtang National Park situated to the north of Kathmandu and the trek leads to the holy Gosaikunda Lake at an altitude of 4 380 meters.

How many days does the Gosaikunda Trek take?

The itineraries are mostly 7 to 13 days long, depending on where the trek leads, and or if the trek is going on towards the Helambu region.

What is special about Gosaikunda Lake?

The holy Gosaikunda Lake is a significant pilgrimage which is said to have been formed by Lord Shiva and is visited by thousands of pilgrims, especially once a year during the Janai Purnima festival.

Is Wi-Fi or mobile network available on the trek?

The Wi-Fi and mobile networks are available in some of the villages the route goes through, although the speed is slower and weaker with increased altitude.

Do they have hot showers on the trek?

Hot showers are usually available in many teahouses at an additional fee, but in low altitude locations, they might be less developed.

Preparation & Fitness

Can beginners do the Gosaikunda Trek?

Yes, it is possible to finish this trek successfully even with beginners in good physical shape and who have been properly prepared.

Permits

Do I need permits for the trek?

Yes, trekkers should have Langtang National Park Entry permit and TIMS card in order to enter the trekking region.

Accommodation and Facilities

What type of accommodation do we get in the trek?

Mostly accommodated along the trail are local teahouses. Accommodations are no frills with twin beds and common showers, yet rooms are cozy and offer warm and friendly hospitality during the trek.

Is electricity available for charging devices?

Yes, the majority of teahouses have electricity to charge phones, cameras, and other devices at an insignificant charge.

Food and Drinks

What kind of food is available during the trek?

Teahouses have a wide variety of foods including dal bhat (rice, lentils and vegetables), noodles, soup, pasta, potatoes, eggs and pancakes, tea, coffee, or other hot beverages.

Is drinking water available on the trail?

Yes, one can buy water at teahouses or replenish it on the trail. To be on the safer side, one can carry water purification pills or a filter.

Weather & Seasons

What is the best time to do the Gosaikunda Trek?

Spring (March -May) and autumn (September-November) are the most suitable seasons because the weather is stable and the mountain scenery can be seen.

Transportation & Flight

What transportation is used for the Gosaikunda Trek?

The walk normally starts with a scenic drive in Kathmandu to Dhunche by local bus, and is managed according to requirements, where the walk starts and finishes with another drive back to Kathmandu at Sundarijal.

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